Hoops, heroes, and heart—those three words come to mind when describing the Military Basketball Association’s All-Star Game. On Sept. 14, Oklahoma City University hosted the 2024 MBA All-Star Games in the Henry J. Freede Wellness Center. The MBA has been around for over seven years and forms teams for all service branches with active-duty service members and veterans.
For decades filled with conflict and terror, veterans and active-duty service members have undergone severe mental health issues. Some of these issues include Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Substance Use Disorder, Depression, and, tragically, suicide.
Oklahoma City Veterans Affairs is a resource for helping veterans in crisis. The MBA and Oklahoma City Veterans Affairs Healthcare System are working closely together to raise awareness of mental health and suicide prevention.
Furthermore, the MBA strengthens veterans by promoting awareness of mental health issues that service members suffer from. Additionally, the ultimate goal is to reduce the number of suicides. The MBA event shows that through the power of the military community and sport, service members can get the help they need.
Before the toss of the game, veterans were treated to resources from the Oklahoma City Veterans Affairs staff. Beginning at 4 pm, veterans received help with enrollment and eligibility. Additionally, servicemembers also received toxic exposure screenings and were able to file claims with the VA.
The games started at 6 pm, and admission was free for everyone. Veterans, active-duty service members, and military widows were encouraged to participate and get needed help.
The teams were divided into East and West, with players from bases nationwide, including Elbert Elliot from Scott Air Force Base in St. Clair County, Illinois, to Rondell Adderley from Camp Pendleton in San Diego, California. Ezekiel Rose, who hails from Oklahoma City’s Tinker Air Force Base, was on the West team’s roster.
Coach Christopher Mason led the West from Cannon Air Force Base, while Coach Angel Acevado led the East from Fort Moore.
In short, the MBA prides itself on the fact that no player has attempted or committed suicide since the inception of the association. This is due to the deep camaraderie and strong community.
“We’re very proud to bring the games to Oklahoma City, a city filled with spirit for sport and veterans. The MBA is also proud to have active-duty and veteran players from across the nation and to provide resources and care from the VA with its extraordinary professionals,” said Mike Meyers, MBA commissioner.
Leave a Reply